Considering a Commission Based Pay Model?

Thinking about taking a job with a commission based pay model ? Or would you like to moved to a commission based pay model? Whatever the reason, below are questions to ask and things to consider before accepting the job.

Questions To Ask If Commission Pay is Offered

1. Is this straight commission or comission plus a base pay? 

2. Will I be paid on production or collections?

• If production will this be net or gross?

3. Do I get commission on the dentists exam as it is done in hygiene?  

4. Do I get commission on products I sell? 

5. Are there any services or products that I don’t earn commission on?  

6. What is your now show policy and do I receive commission on the no-show fee? 

7. Consider asking what their previous hygienist produced the year prior. 

8. Consider asking to see if the schedule is full and booked out 6 months.

9. Consider asking for commissions on the sale of cosmetic procedures such as orthodontic clear aligners, veneers etc.

10. If you have negotiated a deal to work on some type of commission pay, get the offer in writing. 

Things To Keep in Mind If Accepting a Job with Commission Pay

1. Consider that you are getting a piece of the pie. The more you produce the more you make.  

2. Consider that you get a raise when you increase your fee’s. 

3. If working on commissions it is important to run your practice with ethics. Remember the mantra, “I recommend for products and services that patients NEED.”  If  the patient won’t benefit from this then don’t do it. 

4. How do I make more money if I work off of commission? Add in more products and services such as in-office whitening, oral cancer screening tools, lasers, silver diamine fluoride treatments, Laser, Arestin, sensitivity treatments, sleep apnea screenings/appliances, night guards, toothbrushes, toothpastes and rinses.